I had the pleasure of attending Aesop’s “Sojourn Sunlight” event at TRX Mall, celebrating the launch of their newest fragrance, Virēre. As someone who has always admired Aesop’s elegant minimalism, I was curious to see how they would unveil this new scent. What I experienced was nothing short of a sensory journey, blending the art of fragrance and the storytelling of memories.
The event, held at the sensorial Aēsop TRX store, celebrated Virēre, a fragrance conceptualised by long-time Aesop collaborator Barnabé Fillion. Inspired by his serene vacation memories spent in the Mediterranean, Fillion sought to bottle up moments of tranquillity and sunshine. One of the standout ideas behind the scent was the simplicity of “taking time to be under the fig tree and making the right tea.” This poetic recollection set the tone for the entire event, inviting us to slow down and immerse ourselves in the essence of these Mediterranean mornings.
For those unfamiliar, “sojourn” refers to a temporary stay, perfectly encapsulating the fleeting yet impactful moments Fillion aims to recreate with Virēre. The perfume itself is a journey through natural landscapes, taking its wearers on a temporary escape, even if just for a moment.
The Fragrance Notes of Virēre
At the heart of Virēre is an intoxicating blend of figs and green tea, which immediately evokes a sense of calm and warmth. The top notes of galbanum and petitgrain bring a green freshness that transports you to the leafy shade of a fig tree, while bergamot adds a touch of brightness, like a ray of sunlight peeking through the branches.
As the perfume settles, the richness of mastic and the spiciness of pink pepper emerge, mixing with the green tea to evoke a vivid memory of brewing fig tea on a sun-dappled morning. It’s as though the steam from the freshly made tea rises and dances around you, filling your senses with comfort and serenity.
The base notes, a grounding blend of cedar, green yerba mate, hay, and minerals, give the fragrance its earthiness, reminding you of the solid ground beneath your feet. These notes bring the experience full circle, creating a long-lasting and contemplative scent that lingers, much like a fond memory of a cherished vacation.
The Event Experience
Walking into the store, I was greeted by Aesop’s signature aesthetic—clean lines, natural materials, and an overall air of sophistication. The event setup was understated yet immersive, with lush greenery and soft, natural light mimicking the Mediterranean landscapes that inspired Virēre. Guests were invited to explore the different layers of the fragrance through scent stations, which allowed us to experience each note individually.
As we mingled, we were served refreshing drinks and delicate treats that mirrored the sensory journey of the perfume. There was a quiet buzz in the air, with each attendee savouring the moments of calm reflection that the event encouraged. It wasn’t just about discovering a new fragrance; it was about taking a brief sojourn—a temporary stay—in an idyllic world of scent and memory.
Aēsop‘s new fragrance is at your nearest store.
The launch of Virēre at Aesop’s TRX store was more than just an event, it was a poetic sensorial experience, a retreat from the everyday hustle, offering a glimpse into the serene, sunlit world that Barnabé Fillion so fondly remembers. Virēre is a scent for those who appreciate the simple beauty of nature and for anyone looking to capture fleeting moments of peace and tranquillity in a bottle.
If you ever find yourself at Aesop, I highly recommend trying Virēre. Let it take you on your own sojourn, even if just for a moment.
Have you experienced Virēre yet? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
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